Helping Teens and Kids Cope with Anxiety and Depression During and After Divorce

Main menu

Post navigation

Children and Divorce: When is Counseling Necessary?

During a divorce, one of your primary concerns as a parent will be your child’s adjustment to the new living arrangements. While some children sail through divorce with little difficulty, others may struggle long after the divorce is final. If your child is exhibiting new behaviors that are cause for concern, then here is how to tell if it may be necessary to visit a professional for support.

Signs a Child Is Struggling with Divorce
It is common for children to show some signs of distress during the divorce process; however these symptoms should clear up within a short period of time. If you notice that any of the symptoms described below are lingering or interfere with your child’s ability to function, then divorce counseling may be necessary.

Changes in sleep patterns

Separation anxiety

Lack of interest in friends and normal activities

Excessive lying

Deteriorating school performance

Refusal to comply with house rules

Physical complaints with no obvious cause

Potty training regression in younger children

Risky or aggressive behaviors

Overeating, skipping meals or excessive exercise

Drug abuse

Self-harm

Breaking laws

Impact Upon the Family
When your child exhibits challenging behaviors due to the divorce, it often spills over into the entire family. Here are a few signs that you may notice in yourself and your other children.

Missed work time due to school and home conflicts

Feelings of anger or exhaustion due to your child’s behavior

Lack of sleep due to excessive worry

Falling behind on necessary household tasks

Expressions of concern from family, friends and teachers

Increased sibling rivalry that disrupts family life

Fear of losing control

Constant feelings of guilt regarding the divorce

When a child has trouble coping with divorce, they may not always verbalize their feelings. Often, children lash out with their behavior as an attempt to signal their negative emotions. Fortunately, counseling can help children learn how to accept a divorce while channeling their behavior into a positive direction. By recognizing your child’s need for additional support, you can turn your divorce into an opportunity for personal growth while reinforcing your family bond.